This Code of Practice for Loading of Rail Freight is intended as an aid to Australian Rolling Stock Operators (RSOs) to describe common practice for loading of freight on rail vehicles.

This Code of Practice is intended for application on all Australian railways (with the exception of sugar cane and light railways), but each operator may choose whether or not to adopt the information contained within this Code of Practice.

The scope of this Code of Practice is limited to the loading of rail freight only.

The purpose of this Code of Practice is to provide RSOs and consignors with requirements and recommendations for the loading, restraint and securement of a wide range of freight commonly transported on rail vehicles. The retention and proper configuration of loading in or on rail vehicles is a critical issue with regard to safe transit and the prevention of damage to rail tracks, infrastructure and persons.